Pets Are Victims of Domestic Violence in 70% Of Cases, Study Finds

Rocky Kanaka |

Sep 21, 2023

A staggering 70% of domestic violence victims have reported that their abusers either threatened, injured, or killed their family pets, according to the AKC.

This alarming statistic underscores the profound impact of domestic violence on all family members, including the four-legged ones. Abusers often target pets as a means of exerting control, instilling fear, or punishing their victims. The emotional bond between victims and their pets is deep, making threats or harm to these animals a powerful tool for manipulation.

Furthermore, the safety and well-being of their pets play a significant role in the decisions victims make regarding their abusive situations. Studies have shown that 18 to 48% of domestic violence victims delay their escape from an abusive environment due to concerns about the welfare of their pets.

This hesitation stems from the fear of leaving pets behind in a potentially harmful situation and the lack of pet-friendly shelters or accommodations. The intertwined fate of victims and their pets highlights the need for more comprehensive support systems that consider the well-being of both humans and animals in domestic violence scenarios.

Domestic Violence And Pets

Research underscores the gravity of the situation. A nationwide survey from 1997 involving 50 of the largest domestic violence shelters in the U.S reported that 85% of women and 63% of children in these shelters also witnessed incidents of animal abuse. This distressing reality intensifies the tragedy, as many victims hesitate to leave dangerous situations, fearing for their pets’ fate. The AKC Humane Fund has been proactive in addressing this issue since 2010, providing over 80 grants to shelters and organizations to aid in caring for the pets of domestic violence victims.

For many victims, their pets represent a beacon of trust and companionship in an otherwise tumultuous life. Yet, the sad reality is that numerous shelters, which could serve as sanctuaries for these victims, do not permit pets. This lack of provision further complicates the decision for victims to leave their abusive environments. Recognizing this, the AKC Humane Fund has initiated campaigns to financially support local domestic violence shelters that are pet-friendly. Through these efforts, shelters can offer food, supplies, and support to pets, ensuring that both the victim and their pet find safety away from danger.

Protections for Pets Under Domestic Violence Acts

Further emphasizing its commitment, the AKC, during its recent board meeting, introduced a new Canine Legislation Position statement on “Protections for Pets Under Domestic Violence Acts.” The statement advocates for additions to state domestic violence statutes, allowing for protective orders that shield pets from potential harm or alienation. Such provisions would prohibit alleged abusers from contacting the pets and grant temporary exclusive care or control of the pet to the alleged victim. Importantly, these provisions would not alter the legal status of animals as property.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October, recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, is a crucial period dedicated to highlighting the widespread issue of domestic violence and its profound effects on families and communities. It serves as a stark reminder of the silent struggles many endure behind closed doors and emphasizes society’s collective role in addressing and eradicating this menace.

During this month, various organizations, communities, and individuals unite to spearhead events, campaigns, and initiatives to educate the public about the signs of domestic violence and the resources available for victims. One such organization making notable strides in this area is the American Kennel Club’s Humane Fund.

The AKC Humane Fund has recognized the intricate relationship between domestic violence and the maltreatment of pets. Understanding that pets often become collateral victims in violent households, the AKC Humane Fund has launched campaigns to support not only the human victims but their four-legged companions as well. Their initiatives aim to financially assist local domestic violence shelters that are pet-friendly, ensuring that victims do not have to choose between their safety and the well-being of their pets. Through their efforts, these shelters can offer essential supplies, food, and support to pets, providing a sanctuary for both the victim and their beloved animal.

Furthermore, the choice of October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, as it leads into the holiday season, is poignant. While many anticipate joyous family gatherings, others fear the potential escalation of violence in their homes. The AKC Humane Fund’s initiatives during this month underscore the importance of community support, aiming to ensure that every individual, human or pet, can look forward to a future free from fear and abuse.

Map of State Laws Allowing Domestic Violence Orders to Include Pets

As of 2022, 36 states, including D.C. and Puerto Rico, have enacted laws that include pets in domestic violence protection orders.

Alaska	Since 2016, protective orders can include pets, defining them as animals kept for companionship, excluding certain working dogs and rodeo animals.
Arizona	2010 amendments allow courts to grant exclusive care of any animal to the petitioner.
Arkansas	2011 laws include pets in protection orders and recognize emotional abuse involving pets.
California	From 2014, courts can grant exclusive care of any household animal to the petitioner.
Colorado	2010 laws include crimes against animals as a form of domestic violence.
Connecticut	Courts can issue orders protecting any household animal.
D.C.	Protection orders can include directives for the care of domestic animals.
Florida	Protection orders can prevent harm to family pets and grant temporary exclusive care.
Hawaii	Restraining orders can include directives for household animals.
Illinois	Courts can grant exclusive care of any household animal to the petitioner.
Indiana	From 2017, courts can grant exclusive care of any household animal to the petitioner.
Iowa	Courts can grant exclusive care of pets and companion animals.
Louisiana	Courts can grant exclusive care of any household pet.
Maine	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Maryland	From 2011, protective orders can grant temporary possession of pets.
Massachusetts	Courts can grant exclusive care of any household animal.
Michigan	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Minnesota	Protective orders can include directives for household pets.
Missouri	2021 laws allow protective orders to include provisions for household pets.
Nevada
New Hampshire	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
New Jersey	2012 laws allow protective orders to include provisions for household pets.
New York	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
North Carolina	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Ohio	From 2014, protective orders can grant exclusive care of companion animals.
Oklahoma	Protective orders can include directives for household pets.
Oregon	Protective orders can include directives for household pets.
Rhode Island	2019 laws allow protective orders to include provisions for household pets.
South Carolina	Protective orders can grant exclusive care of household pets.
Tennessee	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Texas	Protective orders can grant exclusive care of pets.
Vermont	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Virginia	From 2014, protective orders can grant exclusive care of companion animals.
Washington	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
West Virginia	Protective orders can include directives for household animals.
Wisconsin	Protective orders can grant exclusive care of household pets.
Wyoming	2019 laws allow protective orders to include provisions for household pets.
Puerto Rico	Courts can grant exclusive custody of any household pet in protection orders.

These States Do NOT Include Pets

The following states in the U.S. do not have provisions that include pets in domestic violence protection orders as of 2022:

1. Alabama	8. Montana
2. Delaware	9. Nebraska
3. Georgia	10. New Mexico
4. Idaho	11. North Dakota
5. Kansas	12. Pennsylvania
6. Kentucky	13. South Dakota
7. Mississippi	14. Utah

Pet Friendly Domestic Violence Shelters

To find pet friendly domestic violence shelters please visit: https://www.safehavensforpets.org/

FAQs: Dogs and Domestic Violence

Why are dogs often involved in domestic violence situations?

Dogs, being integral members of many families, can become targets in domestic violence situations. Abusers may harm or threaten to harm pets as a means of exerting control, instilling fear, or punishing their victims.

How common is it for domestic violence victims to delay leaving due to concerns about their dogs?

It’s alarmingly common. Studies have shown that 18 to 48% of domestic violence victims delay their escape from an abusive situation due to concerns about the welfare of their pets.

Are there Pet Friendly Domestic Violence Shelters? Shelters that accommodate both domestic violence victims and their pets?

Yes, while many shelters traditionally did not accommodate pets, there’s a growing recognition of the bond between victims and their pets. As a result, an increasing number of shelters are making provisions to house both victims and their pets. To find the closest pet friendly domestic violence shelter visit: https://www.safehavensforpets.org/

What can victims do if a shelter doesn’t accept pets?

Victims can seek out local animal shelters or rescue groups that might offer temporary foster care for pets. Additionally, organizations like the AKC Humane Fund provide grants to shelters and organizations to assist with the care of pets belonging to domestic violence victims.

How can domestic violence laws protect pets?

Some states have incorporated provisions in their domestic violence statutes that allow for protective orders to include pets. These orders can prohibit alleged abusers from contacting or harming the pets and can grant the victim temporary exclusive care or control of the pet. See listing of states above

Why is it important to consider pets in domestic violence situations?

Pets often provide emotional support and companionship to victims. The bond between a victim and their pet can be profound, and the threat to a beloved pet can be used as a manipulative tool by abusers. Ensuring the safety of pets can be crucial for the emotional well-being of the victim.

Are there any resources or programs that raise awareness about the link between pets and domestic violence?

Yes, many organizations, including the AKC Humane Fund, work to raise awareness about the connection between domestic violence victims and their pets. They advocate for policies that protect both humans and their pets and provide resources to help victims and their pets find safety.